Broomfield’s Coexistence with Wildlife Policy identifies coyote hazing as one of many strategies to reduce or prevent conflicts between humans and coyotes. Coyote hazing activities are also a key component of the ongoing Denver Metro Area Coyote Behavior Study.

Coyote hazing can be defined as methods that use deterrents to move an animal out of an area or discourage an undesirable behavior or activity. Hazing can help maintain a coyote’s fear of humans and deter them from neighborhood spaces such as backyards and playgrounds. Hazing does not permanently harm the coyote, humans, or property. Under no circumstances should a person approach a coyote or haze a coyote that cannot run away or is sick or injured.

Broomfield encourages residents to practice low-intensity hazing on their own private property, in their neighborhoods, or in other locations throughout the community when coyotes are too close so that coyote conflicts can be prevented.

Low-intensity hazing, intended to scare away coyotes, includes:

banging pots,

shining bright lights,

shouting,

throwing small rocks or sticks,

spraying garden hoses,

spraying pepper spray,

carrying a ski pole or golf club,

using whistles or other noisemakers,

practicing the S.M.A.R.T. actions noted below.

Once again, these techniques are not intended to cause harm to the animal, but rather to reinforce a healthy fear level and discomfort around humans.

Be S.M.A.R.T.!

Stop! Do not run! If you run, the coyote may chase.Make yourself look big! Put your hands over your head or pull your jacket up over your head. Look as big as you can to the coyote knows that you too tough to mess with.Announce forcefully, "Leave Me Alone"! Repeat if necessary. This lets the coyote know you are a person, and it lets people around you know that you may be in trouble.Retreat! Back away slowly, but don't turn your back on the coyote.Teach your friends and neighbors about coyotes and report coyote encounters to an adult if you're a child.